Autism Swim is FIVE!
Where it all began…
Autism Swim was established in 2016 by Founder and CEO Erika Gleeson (G.C Autism, B.A Behavioural Science). 5 years on, that team of one has grown into an international charity organisation, working hard every day to change the status quo for people on the Autism Spectrum and those with other abilities, and to make Aquatics inclusive worldwide!
Check out what our CEO Erika had to say about the creation of Autism Swim back in 2016
Why did you establish Autism Swim? How did it all come to be?
On top of the hugely disproportionate drowning statistics:
- Aquatic professionals were crying out for help in terms of the challenges they were experiencing and the best ways to teach those with neurodiversity/other abilities
- Parents were incredibly distressed by wandering behaviour and where to go for help
- Those with other abilities were being excluded or were being taught in a way that was not conducive to their needs
- The wider community had no idea that this was even an issue
So….. We developed a solution to each and every problem that presented itself. We've remained solutions-focused ever since.
What has the organisation achieved in 5 years?
We have grown, from one brilliant lady with an idea to change the way people on the Autism Spectrum were included in Aquatic environments, to a small team of extremely determined individuals, working as an international charity, to change aquatics the world over!
We have met some wonderful people along the way, and have some incredible AS Approved Providers, who are just as passionate about inclusion as we are!
Our inclusive surf skills program (Dippers) has expanded to include several more locations (with more to come!) and is allowing people from all different locations to access life saving skills, and to make some wonderful connections with Surf Life Saving volunteers.
We have faced many challenges, including Covid, and have come through this stronger and more determined than ever before!
Autism Swim has expanded into over 20 countries. In our growth we have been recognised as the world experts on wandering and drowning prevention for those on the Autism Spectrum and with other abilities.
-
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipisicing elit.
-
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipisicing elit.
-
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipisicing elit.
-
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipisicing elit.
-
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipisicing elit.
-
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipisicing elit.
Why is Autism Swim's 5th Birthday so important?
Making it to 5 years is a worthy cause of celebration for any small business. For us, every day of every year that we’re still able to do what we do and have the impact that we have, is something we don’t take for granted. Who knew it was possible to love ‘work’ so much!?
Our future is exciting; with plans to:
- Expand our Dippers program
- Launch the world first Surfing Certification: We are on a mission to make ALL aquatics inclusive! Launching this summer is our next certification to allow Surfing Instructors to become Autism Swim Approved. We know many of our participants LOVE the beach and are so excited to offer new opportunities!
- Addition of 4th year content to Autism Swim’s Aquatic Provider training.
- Re-Launch our UPDATED App. This is an interactive water safety social story for those with other abilities; and
- Partner with other organisations who wish to contribute to social impact.
Ultimately, we will continue to expand our reach and service offerings, to allow everyone:
- The opportunity to participate
- The opportunity to learn in ways which are conducive to their needs
- The opportunity to enjoy and benefit from the water
Of all our achievements, the community that we have created is perhaps what we are most proud of. For everyone that has supported us and our mission along the way, we are forever indebted to you.
To achieve our future goals, community support will be integral; and due to this, we are asking that for those who are able, they make a donation to say 'happy birthday' and 'keep up the good work!' You can make your tax deductible donation here.
DIPPERS
Time flies when you are having fun! In 2021 we enjoyed a ripper of a season across 3 locations at Bondi, Coogee and Port Macquarie. There was nothing but smiles from ear to ear from both participants and our amazing club volunteers lighting up the beach each Dippers Season. In 2022 we will be taking the Dippers program to the shores of Bronte Beach and Caloundra in QLD... with more exciting locations to be announced.
The AS Dippers program is like no other, bringing together inclusivity and what unites us all – our love of the water. It has been amazing to watch relationships grow, the understanding of water safety increase, and skills sky-rocket in our participants.
We won't stop there though - bring on 2022. Autism Swim are working relentlessly to grow this inclusive program across more sandy shores. Our waitlist is extensive, so we need to rally the troops to get sponsors and Surf Life Saving Clubs onboard. To get involved contact Kat at partnerships@autismswim.com.au.
We could not run this free program without the support of the club, volunteers and sponsors. Thank you for your support in making our beaches inclusive.
AUTISM SWIM 2021 UPDATES
Surfing Certification:
We are on a mission to make ALL aquatics inclusive! Launching this summer is our next certification to allow Surfing Instructors to become Autism Swim Approved. We know many of our participants LOVE the beach and are so excited to offer new opportunities to learn and enjoy the water!
Water Safety App:
World first water safety app – launched on iPhone and Android Devices with new scenes. Following the huge success of Autism Swim’s World First Water Safety App on Apple devices we bring you incredible updates and expansions!! Prepare for more new scenarios including the beach and the river as well as updates to the pool scenes. Now everyone can learn about and prepare for aquatic adventures from their iPhone, iPad or Android Device!
Addition of 4th year content to Autism Swim’s Aquatic Provider training:
4 years of continuous learning from our most devoted Autism Swim Approved Providers. After 4 years of training your skills and knowledge on creating inclusive aquatic environments is well established in the field. Now you can retain access to the first 3 years of training and engage with more frequent, bite-sized, on-demand training webinars and resources provided over the duration of the year - feel more connected with the Autism Swim Team than ever!
NDIS Joint Standing Committee Submission:
Our submission has been accepted by the Joint Standing Committee on the National Disability Insurance Scheme. This means the importance of accessing highly skilled and tailored aquatic Programs for NDIS participants is being heard by decision makers of the NDIS. There is a call for parent experiences.
Please reach out if you would like to share your experience with an Autism Swim Approved Program with the NDIS.
HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO US 🥳
Thank You to our Photographers: Gavin Little, Nat Sports Media, Available Light Images.